Lexington, Kentucky, December 16, 2025
A local restaurant in Lexington has reported a dramatic 50% decline in sales attributed to ongoing construction on Leestown Road. The construction project, aimed at improving traffic flow, has led to temporary ramp closures and detours, which have significantly impacted customer access. Nearby businesses also express concerns over diminished patronage during this challenging period. Although affected owners are navigating new strategies to attract customers, they remain optimistic about future improvements once construction is completed.
Local Restaurant Reports 50% Decline in Sales Due to Construction
Lexington, Kentucky – A local restaurant owner has reported a significant downturn in business, attributing a 50% decrease in November sales to ongoing construction on Leestown Road. The double crossover diamond project, aimed at improving traffic flow, has led to temporary ramp closures and detours, adversely affecting customer access to nearby establishments.
Impact on Local Businesses
The construction project has resulted in the temporary closure of the New Circle Road ramps to and from Leestown Road from November 9 to November 26, 2025. These closures have redirected traffic and created detours, leading to decreased patronage for businesses in the Meadowthorpe neighborhood. Local business owners have expressed concerns over the reduced customer flow and its impact on their operations.
Details of the Construction Project
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet initiated the double crossover diamond project to enhance traffic flow and safety at the Leestown Road interchange. The project includes widening parts of New Circle Road and converting the interchange to a more efficient design. The temporary ramp closures were implemented to expedite the construction process, with the goal of returning Leestown Road to two lanes in each direction by mid-December 2025. This improvement is expected to alleviate long-term traffic congestion in the area.
Community Response and Future Outlook
While the construction has posed challenges for local businesses, many owners acknowledge the long-term benefits of the project. They anticipate that the improved traffic flow will attract more customers once the construction is completed. In the interim, business owners are exploring alternative strategies to mitigate the impact of reduced foot traffic, such as enhancing their online presence and offering promotions to retain and attract customers.
Background Context
Leestown Road, a major thoroughfare in Lexington, has been undergoing significant infrastructure improvements to accommodate the increasing traffic demands. The double crossover diamond design is a modern interchange configuration that aims to reduce congestion and improve safety by allowing vehicles to make left turns without crossing opposing traffic. The current construction phase is part of a broader initiative to modernize Lexington’s transportation infrastructure, with completion expected in the coming months.
Weather Forecast for Lexington, KY
As of December 16, 2025, the weather in Lexington is clear with a temperature of 27°F (-3°C). The forecast for the upcoming days is as follows:
- Tuesday, December 16: Not as cold with times of clouds and sun, High: 43°F (6°C), Low: 37°F (3°C)
- Wednesday, December 17: Breezy in the morning with sun and areas of high clouds followed by clouds limiting sunshine, High: 50°F (10°C), Low: 41°F (5°C)
- Thursday, December 18: Winds becoming strong; periods of rain, High: 58°F (15°C), Low: 25°F (-4°C)
- Friday, December 19: Breezy in the morning; otherwise, mostly sunny and much colder, High: 31°F (-1°C), Low: 24°F (-5°C)
- Saturday, December 20: Breezy with sunshine and a few clouds, High: 53°F (12°C), Low: 42°F (6°C)
- Sunday, December 21: Partly sunny, High: 46°F (8°C), Low: 30°F (-1°C)
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Construction Project | Double crossover diamond project on Leestown Road to improve traffic flow and safety. |
| Ramp Closures | Temporary closure of New Circle Road ramps to and from Leestown Road from November 9 to November 26, 2025. |
| Business Impact | Local businesses in the Meadowthorpe neighborhood reported a 50% decline in sales for November 2025 due to decreased customer traffic. |
| Completion Timeline | Construction expected to be completed by mid-December 2025, with Leestown Road returning to two lanes in each direction. |
| Weather Forecast | Clear conditions with temperatures ranging from 27°F (-3°C) to 58°F (15°C) over the next week. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the double crossover diamond project on Leestown Road?
The double crossover diamond project is an infrastructure improvement initiative aimed at enhancing traffic flow and safety at the Leestown Road interchange in Lexington, Kentucky. The project involves widening parts of New Circle Road and converting the interchange to a more efficient design.
How long will the ramp closures last?
The New Circle Road ramps to and from Leestown Road were temporarily closed from November 9 to November 26, 2025, to expedite the construction process.
When is the construction expected to be completed?
The construction is expected to be completed by mid-December 2025, with Leestown Road returning to two lanes in each direction, aiming to alleviate long-term traffic congestion in the area.
How are local businesses affected by the construction?
Local businesses in the Meadowthorpe neighborhood have reported decreased customer traffic due to the construction and ramp closures, leading to a 50% decline in sales for some establishments in November 2025.
What are business owners doing to mitigate the impact?
Business owners are exploring alternative strategies to mitigate the impact of reduced foot traffic, such as enhancing online presence and offering promotions to retain and attract customers during the construction period.
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